A long-standing supporter of the University, Sir Fraser was a pioneer in the fields of nanoscience and organic chemistry.
Distinguished career
Born in Edinburgh and raised in a small farming community near the city, Sir Fraser completed a BSc in Chemistry in 1964 at the University before completing a PhD two years later.
After graduating, Sir Fraser began his academic career at Queen’s University, Ontario. Latterly, he was a professor at Northwestern University.
During his long and distinguished career, Sir Fraser made important contributions to organic chemistry research.
In 2016, he shared the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his work on the design and production of molecular machines.
Renowned scientist
The Professor was named Edinburgh's Alumnus of the Year in 2005 and knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2006.
In 2023, Sir Fraser was awarded an honorary degree from the University in recognition of his inspirational world-leading work over the past five decades.
He is best known for his work in the field of supramolecular chemistry and, in particular, the concept of the mechanical bond – an incredibly strong entanglement between molecules which underpins advanced materials. He became renowned as a leading expert in nanotechnology, leading to his Nobel Prize win in 2016.
University supporter
Throughout his career Sir Fraser maintained strong connections with Edinburgh and the University’s School of Chemistry. In 2013, Sir Fraser supported the establishment of the Fraser and Norma Stoddart PhD Prize.
The award is presented annually to students who demonstrate superior research accomplishments and contributions to the life of students within the School of Chemistry.